On 11 September, as part of the 11th St. Petersburg International Forum of United Cultures, in the spaces of the St. Petersburg State Academic Capella, the Russian House in Rome will present the exhibition “Blue on Blue: Ceramics of the Twin Cities of Gzhel and Deruta.” The show features works from two leading centers of national ceramic production. In 2018, Gzhel became the first city with which Deruta signed a twinning agreement. The masters of these two centers created pieces specifically for this unique joint project: specialists from Deruta hand-painted tableware in shades of blue as a tribute to the traditions of their Russian twin city.
The exhibition was a great success in Rome in February 2025, with more than 150 people attending the opening and over a thousand Italians visiting over the course of its run. Daria Pushkova, Director of the Russian House in Rome, comments: “The twinning between Gzhel and Deruta was concluded in 2018 with the support of the Russian House in Rome. Indeed, it was the first twinning in Deruta’s history. We are very pleased that horizontal partnerships between our peoples and cities continue to live and develop. This exhibition is an example of an ongoing cultural dialogue.”
The earliest documentary evidence of ceramic artisans in both cities dates back to the 13th century. Since then, entire life cycles of local artists have been built around ceramic production, and the city names have entered history and retain their renown to this day. Today, both in Gzhel and Deruta, new directions and forms evolve alongside traditional motifs; experience and modernity harmoniously complement each other, allowing every artist and viewer to find something of their own.
Audiences at the St. Petersburg Capella’s concerts will see ceremonial tableware created specially for the joint project by masters from both countries. The display will feature independent ceramic artists and representatives of various Russian and Italian art associations.
The exhibition “Blue on Blue: Ceramics of the Twin Cities of Gzhel and Deruta” runs through 9 October 2025; admission is free. The exhibition is organized by the Russian House in Rome, the Gzhel Association, the “Deruta — City of Peace” Association, and the St. Petersburg State Academic Capella.
Participation conditions: badge.